From Left To Right: The big Swede leans more toward the middle.

S80 = MKSCan Volvo do for Lincoln what Mercedes-Benz did for Chrysler? Just as the 300 and Dodge variants use the last-generation E-Class platform, the outgoing S80's platform (which continues in the S60, V70, and XC90) has evolved into the D3 architecture underneath the Ford Five Hundred/Freestyle, Mercury Montego, and now, the 2008 Lincoln MKS.

But while Ford was eager to point out the Volvo connection to the Fords and Mercury, especially in issues of safety, it's low-key about that connection in the 2008 Lincoln MKS, which replaces the outgoing LS. The Volvo platform is flexible--it serves the smaller S60, the V70, and XC90--and like the Fords and Mercury is stretched to 203.8 inches overall in the MKS, with a 114.4-inch wheelbase. As shown in concept, the Lincoln has 20-inch wheels, all-wheel drive, the Yamaha V-8, and six-speed automatic. A base front-drive model with the new Volvo 3.2-liter six would be a good way to amortize that powertrain.For the 2010 model year, Lincoln will stretch the platform further for its new "modern flagship," a front- or all-wheel-drive sedan codenamed E386. Lincoln is expected to sell it without dropping its venerable Town Car. Meanwhile, the new S80 platform will be the basis for a big 2008 wagon and possibly a hybrid-powered 2010 sedan.